In what ways can we seek God's protection from deceitful speech today? The Verse at the Center “May lying lips be silenced, which speak arrogantly against the righteous with pride and contempt.” – Psalm 31:18 Seeing the Danger Behind Deceitful Speech • Lying lips distort reality and attack the righteous (Psalm 52:2–4). • False words spring from pride (Proverbs 6:16-17) and can poison communities (James 3:6). • God promises to judge every idle word (Matthew 12:36) and protect His people who trust Him (Psalm 12:5-7). Ways We Seek God’s Protection Today • Stay anchored in Scripture – Hide God’s Word in your heart (Psalm 119:11). – Let the “belt of truth” hold your armor together (Ephesians 6:14). – Remember: “Every word of God is flawless; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him” (Proverbs 30:5). • Pray for God to silence lies and guard your lips – Echo David’s plea in Psalm 31:18. – Ask the Lord to “set a guard over my mouth” (Psalm 141:3). – Trust that “the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and guard you from the evil one” (2 Thessalonians 3:3). • Cultivate discernment through the Spirit – The Spirit guides “into all truth” (John 16:13). – Test every word and teaching by Scripture (1 John 4:1). • Walk in personal integrity – “Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech” (Psalm 34:13). – Speak “the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:25). – Your honest words can silence ignorance (1 Peter 2:15). • Surround yourself with truth-loving fellowship – “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). – Encourage one another daily so none are “hardened by sin’s deceitfulness” (Hebrews 3:13). • Rest in God’s vindication – Do not repay evil for evil; leave room for God’s wrath (Romans 12:19). – The Lord “will bring to light what is hidden in darkness” (1 Corinthians 4:5). – “The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10). Living in Confidence Stand firm on God’s unchanging truth, guard your heart and tongue, and trust the Lord to silence every false voice. He remains the faithful shield for all who take refuge in Him. |
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